When Do Bunions Require Surgery?

Bunions start small and tend to grow over time. Catching one early and modifying some habits contributing to its development may help keep your bunion small and manageable.

Unfortunately, not every bunion responds to nonsurgical therapies. At its worst, a bunion can significantly impact your daily routine by making every step painful. The goal then becomes choosing the right time and approach for surgically correcting your bunion.

Our team at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. in Park City and Chicago, Illinois, excels in providing patient-centered care for the entire family, including bunion treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Here’s our professional guidance for determining when and why a bunion might require surgery.

What’s a bunion?

A bunion is a bony overgrowth that forms at the base of the big toe. The skin-covered bump develops when bones and joints at the front of the foot become misaligned.

That causes the big toe to lean toward the second toe and forces the joint at the base of the big toe out of place. As the condition worsens, inflammation and increasing pain can interfere with mobility. You may also have trouble finding shoes that fit as the bunion enlarges.

A less common, smaller version (bunionette) can also form at the base of the fifth toe. Bunionettes can still cause significant pain and difficulty with ambulation.

Bunions often result from genetic factors, foot structure, and years of pressure on the feet.

Nonsurgical treatments for bunions

Not all bunions need surgery. Many people live comfortably with them using treatments like:

• Roomy, supportive shoes with wide toe boxes
• Orthotics or shoe inserts
• Padding to reduce pressure
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Ice and rest when pain flares up

When these no longer help, it might be time to talk about surgery.

So, when do bunions require surgery?

Here are some signs that nonsurgical treatments aren’t enough:

1. Persistent pain

If your bunion hurts every day — even when you wear comfortable shoes — that’s a red flag. Bunion surgery can help relieve chronic pain that interferes with walking, standing, or daily routines.

2. Structural foot deformity worsens

Is your big toe starting to overlap your second toe? Is the bump on your foot getting larger over time? These are signs that the bunion is progressing and might need surgical correction to prevent further complications.

3. Shoes just don’t fit

When no pair of shoes — no matter how wide or soft — fits comfortably, it’s a quality-of-life issue. Bunion surgery can help restore your foot’s shape so you can wear regular shoes again.

4. Limited activity

If bunion pain keeps you from walking, exercising, or staying active, it’s worth exploring surgical options. Physical activity is essential for overall health; your feet shouldn’t hold you back.

5. Other toes are affected

Bunions can throw your entire foot out of alignment. If you develop hammertoes, corns, or calluses, these may be side effects of an untreated bunion. Surgery can help restore better balance and prevent more damage.

What to expect from surgery

There are many types of bunion surgeries, and the right one depends on your foot shape, your lifestyle, and the severity of the deformity. The goal is always the same: reduce pain, correct alignment, and improve function.

Your Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates provider discusses specifics before scheduling a procedure, including what to expect during and after your surgery. While recovery takes time (usually several weeks to a few months), the long-term relief can be life-changing.

Listen to your feet

Bunion surgery is a personal decision. It’s not about how your foot looks — it’s about how your foot feels. 

If bunion pain limits your life or you’re concerned about worsening, schedule a visit at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates today. Call the office or book an appointment online.